How long do western fence lizards live?

A:

Quick Answer

The western fence lizard, or Sceloporus occidentalis, can live up to five years. In its natural habitat, up to 80 percent of the population can die per year. These lizards are preyed on by snakes, birds and shrews.

Keep Learning

Western fence lizards are common in California and are also found in Oregon, Nevada, Washington, Idaho and Utah. They are sometimes called blue-belly lizards because adult males have bright blue patches on their bellies and throats; this coloring is much fainter in females. They inhabit a wide variety of habitats but avoid dense, moist forests and harsh deserts. They are not endangered, but local populations associated with upper-beach driftwood accumulations near Puget Sound in Washington are at risk due to habitat destruction.